Skip to content

Dermalogy Real Cica Pad

Dermalogy Real Cica Pad

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A skin-calming recovery pad soaked in Centella Asiatica essence with gentle PHA exfoliants. Soothes irritated, sensitized skin while reinforcing the moisture barrier and removing dead skin cells — gentle enough for daily use at a low pH of 5.83.

PHA Gentle Exfoliation Centella Asiatica (Cica) 3 Types of Hyaluronic Acid Ceramide NP Barrier Support Low pH 5.83 No Parabens No Artificial Fragrance No Mineral Oil Dermatologist Tested 90 Pads per Jar
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
150ml / 90 Pads
pH Level
5.83
Key Active
Centella Asiatica
Product Type
Exfoliating Pad
Skin Concern
Sensitive / Redness
Why it's different

Cica Skin Recovery

Contains all four key centellosides (Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Madecassoside) from Centella Asiatica to soothe irritation and repair the skin barrier.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Gel-essence soaked pad
Scent
Faint citrus (bergamot)
Absorption
~60 seconds
Finish
Dewy & hydrated

Cica Skin Recovery

Contains all four key centellosides (Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Madecassoside) from Centella Asiatica to soothe irritation and repair the skin barrier.

Gentle PHA Exfoliation

Lactobionic Acid and Gluconolactone (PHAs) provide surface-level exfoliation without penetrating deep into skin — ideal for sensitive and reactive skin types.

Triple Hyaluronic Acid

Three molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid (HA, Hydrolyzed HA, Sodium Hyaluronate) deliver multi-layer hydration from surface to deeper skin levels.

Barrier-Strengthening Complex

Ceramide NP, Panthenol, Allantoin, and Betaine work together to reinforce the skin's moisture barrier and prevent transepidermal water loss.

Dual-Sided Microfiber Pad

Super-fine fiber pads with textured embossing on one side for gentle physical exfoliation and a smooth side for patting in the calming essence.

Daily-Use Friendly

Low pH of 5.83 and ultra-gentle PHA formula make this pad safe for daily use without compromising the skin barrier — even on sensitized skin.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. PHAs are generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, contains a trace amount of Bergamot Fruit Oil (photosensitizer) near the end of the INCI list. Consult your dermatologist to be safe.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Not fungal acne safe. Contains Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Octyldodecanol — all of which can feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne flares.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. No heavily pore-clogging oils or waxes. The formula is lightweight and essence-based, minimizing clogging risk for most skin types.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Human Skin Irritation Test completed and approved. Free from parabens, artificial fragrances, artificial pigments, and mineral oil. pH balanced at 5.83.

Retinol Compatible

PHAs are the gentlest class of chemical exfoliants and can generally be used alongside retinol on alternating nights. Avoid layering directly on the same night if skin is reactive.

Bergamot Oil Note

Contains Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil in trace amounts. This is a known photosensitizer and potential irritant for very reactive skin. Use SPF the morning after.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Centella Asiatica Extract ~High (4th in INCI)Proven

Also known as Cica, Tiger Grass, or Gotu Kola. A medicinal plant with centuries of traditional use for wound healing and inflammation. It is the star ingredient of this formula, listed 4th in the INCI — indicating a high concentration.

  • Wound Healing: Clinical studies confirm Centella Asiatica accelerates wound closure and scar healing through collagen synthesis stimulation.
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms eczema-prone and irritated skin by inhibiting inflammatory mediators.
  • Barrier Support: Stimulates glycosaminoglycan (GAG) production, including natural hyaluronic acid in the skin, for improved moisture retention.
This formula includes all four key centellosides — Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, and Madecassoside — listed individually for maximum soothing and repair benefits.

Lactobionic Acid + Gluconolactone (PHA) Undisclosed %Proven

Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) are the gentlest class of chemical exfoliants. Unlike AHAs, their larger molecular size means they work only on the skin surface, making them ideal for sensitive and reactive skin types.

  • Gentle Exfoliation: Removes dead skin cells and excess sebum at the surface level without deep penetration that causes irritation.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Lactobionic Acid acts as an antioxidant, protecting skin from free radical damage while exfoliating.
  • Humectant Function: PHAs also function as humectants, attracting moisture to the skin — unlike traditional AHAs which can be drying.
While gentler than AHA/BHA, avoid the eye area during application. PHAs are not effective for deep pore cleansing — oily skin may need BHA for blackheads.

Triple Hyaluronic Acid Complex 3 FormsProven

Three different molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid provide hydration at multiple skin levels: Hyaluronic Acid (high MW, surface hydration), Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (low MW, deeper penetration), and Sodium Hyaluronate (medium MW, versatile hydration).

  • Water Retention: Hyaluronic Acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, providing intense plumping hydration.
  • Multi-Layer Delivery: Different molecular weights ensure hydration reaches both the skin surface and deeper layers of the epidermis.
  • Plumping Effect: Helps temporarily smooth the appearance of fine lines by plumping dehydrated skin from within.

Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3) TraceProven

A lipid naturally found in the skin barrier. Ceramide NP is one of the most studied ceramide types and is crucial for maintaining skin barrier integrity and preventing moisture loss.

  • Barrier Repair: Replenishes the skin's natural lipid matrix, especially beneficial for damaged, sensitized, or over-exfoliated skin.
  • Moisture Retention: Works with Hydrogenated Lecithin (also in this formula) to form a protective moisture-sealing layer.

Panthenol + Allantoin SupportingProven

Classic soothing duo found in wound-healing and baby care formulations. Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) deeply hydrates and soothes, while Allantoin promotes cell regeneration and reduces irritation.

  • Panthenol: Penetrates into the skin and converts to Vitamin B5, improving hydration and reducing redness.
  • Allantoin: Stimulates cell proliferation and has well-documented anti-irritant and skin-protectant properties.

33 ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Madecassoside, Lactobionic Acid, Gluconolactone, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Octyldodecanol, Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3), Hydrogenated Lecithin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Allantoin, Betaine, Panthenol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tromethamine, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Xanthan Gum, Propanediol, Diglycerin, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Disodium EDTA

FREE FROM: Parabens, Artificial Fragrances, Artificial Pigments, Mineral Oil, Sulfates, Silicones, Formaldehyde, Phthalates, Alcohol (Ethanol)
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Cica Pad
3
Toner
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Use after cleansing as your exfoliation + toning step. Can replace your regular toner. Best used in the PM routine 2–3 times per week, or daily for gentle maintenance. Always follow with SPF the next morning.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Start with clean skin. Complete your double cleanse (oil cleanser + water-based cleanser) and gently pat skin damp — do not fully dry.

2

Wipe with Textured Side

Take one pad and gently swipe the embossed/textured side across your face in outward motions. Avoid the eye area. This side provides gentle physical + chemical exfoliation.

3

Pat with Smooth Side

Flip the pad over and use the smooth side to gently pat the remaining cica essence into your skin. Focus on areas that need extra calming or hydration.

4

Continue Your Routine

Do not rinse off. Allow the essence to absorb for about 60 seconds, then follow with your serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Close the jar lid tightly to keep remaining pads fresh.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have sensitive, irritated, or redness-prone skin
  • You want a gentle exfoliant that won't sting or burn
  • You are new to chemical exfoliation and want a safe starting point
  • You have dry or dehydrated skin needing hydrating exfoliation
  • You want to soothe post-acne redness and strengthen your barrier
  • You prefer an all-in-one toner + exfoliator pad for convenience
  • You have rosacea and need an ultra-gentle resurfacing product

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have oily skin with blackheads — BHA is better for pore penetration
  • You need strong exfoliation for acne scarring or hyperpigmentation
  • You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — this formula is not FA safe
  • You want dramatic resurfacing results quickly
  • You are very sensitive to bergamot or citrus essential oils
  • You prefer a completely fragrance-free product (contains trace bergamot oil)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Specifically designed for sensitive skin. PHA exfoliation works on the surface only, Centella soothes inflammation, and the low pH of 5.83 minimizes irritation risk.

Dry Skin
Excellent

Triple Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide NP, Betaine, and Panthenol deliver deep hydration. PHAs also act as humectants, making this more hydrating than typical exfoliants.

Combination Skin
Good

Works well across different face zones. Provides gentle exfoliation without over-stripping dry areas. T-zone may still need occasional BHA for deeper pore cleansing.

Oily Skin
Moderate

PHAs don't penetrate pores deeply enough for sebum control or blackhead removal. Better suited as a secondary calming step rather than a primary exfoliant for oily skin.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and soothing Centella make it helpful for calming inflamed acne. Not ideal as sole acne treatment — pair with BHA or benzoyl peroxide for best results.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 2+
Day 1–3

Immediate Soothing & Hydration

Skin feels softer, smoother, and calmer immediately after use. The rich essence provides a noticeable hydration boost and reduces the feeling of tightness or irritation.

85% noticed softer skin
Week 1–2

Smoother Texture & Reduced Flakiness

PHA exfoliation begins to visibly smooth rough patches and dry flakes. Skin surface feels more refined. Redness from mild irritation starts to diminish noticeably.

70% noticed improved texture
Week 3–4

Visible Glow & Barrier Improvement

Consistent use reveals a healthier, more even-toned complexion. The skin barrier feels noticeably stronger. Skin is less reactive to environmental stressors and other products.

65% noticed reduced redness
Month 2+

Strengthened Barrier & Long-Term Calm

Full barrier-strengthening benefits from Ceramide NP and Centella become apparent. Skin maintains better hydration throughout the day. Overall skin resilience and health significantly improved.

75% reported healthier skin barrier
09

Ratings by platform

3K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.4
Rating
2,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users found the exfoliation too mild for acne-prone oily skin and expected stronger results
YesStyle
4.3
Rating
350+
Reviews
Main complaint: Jar packaging is bulky and not travel-friendly; some reports of essence leaking during shipping
Stylevana
4.5
Rating
180+
Reviews
Main complaint: Pads are thinner than expected compared to other Neogen pad products
Soko Glam
4.5
Rating
120+
Reviews
Main complaint: Does not remove blackheads or whiteheads effectively; better for soothing than deep cleansing
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Incredibly gentle — no stinging or burning, even on irritated skin
  • Pads are soaked in generous amounts of hydrating cica essence
  • Leaves skin immediately softer and smoother after a single use
  • 90 pads per jar provides excellent value (3+ months of use)
  • Great entry-level chemical exfoliant for beginners
  • Visibly reduces redness and calms inflamed skin over time
  • No need to rinse — convenient one-step toner + exfoliator
  • Free from parabens, artificial fragrance, and mineral oil

Criticized

  • Too mild for oily skin or stubborn blackheads/whiteheads
  • Jar packaging is large and not travel-friendly
  • Pads are thinner than Neogen's other peeling pad products
  • Contains Bergamot Oil (photosensitizer), not ideal for purists
  • Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
  • Effects are gradual rather than dramatic
  • Essence can leak if jar is stored on its side during transport
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Calming Moisture Barrier Cream
$14.00
Budget Pick

Similar soothing approach with Centella and gentle formula. Focuses more on moisturizing and calming rather than exfoliation. No PHA acids — purely a hydrating/soothing pad. Simpler ingredient list.

72% Match
One Step Green Calming Pad
$22.00
Similar Price

Also features Centella Asiatica for calming, but uses BHA (Betaine Salicylate) instead of PHA for exfoliation. Better for oily, acne-prone skin but may be too strong for very sensitive skin. 70 pads vs 90.

68% Match
Deep Green Tea Toner
$18.00
Budget Pick

Green tea-based calming pad with soothing and antioxidant benefits. No chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA/PHA), so purely a hydrating toner pad. Good alternative if you want zero exfoliation. 70 pads per jar.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
One Step Original Clear Pad
Key Active Willow Bark Water (BHA)
Exfoliant Type BHA (Betaine Salicylate)
Pad Count 70 pads
Hydration Sodium Hyaluronate only
Best For Oily, acne-prone skin with blackheads
Fungal Acne Safe No

Neogen Calming Cica Tree Pad

Key Active Centella + Tea Tree + Zinc PCA
Exfoliant Type PHA + LHA (Capryloyl Salicylic Acid)
Pad Count 90 pads
Hydration 5 Ceramides + 8 types HA
Best For Blemish-prone, combination skin
Fungal Acne Safe No
One Step Green Calming Pad
Key Active Centella + Tea Tree Leaf Extract
Exfoliant Type BHA (Betaine Salicylate)
Pad Count 70 pads
Hydration Sodium Hyaluronate only
Best For Oily, acne-prone, irritated skin
Fungal Acne Safe No
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Always close the lid tightly after each use to prevent the pads from drying out and to keep the essence fresh.

Packaging

Opaque white plastic tub with screw-on lid and inner seal. 90 pre-soaked microfiber pads stacked inside the jar, saturated in cica repair essence (150ml total).

Travel Friendly

No — the full-size jar (150ml) exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit and is bulky. Consider decanting a few pads into a smaller sealed container for travel.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. The formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the most commonly flagged pregnancy-unsafe ingredients. The PHA exfoliants (Lactobionic Acid and Gluconolactone) are generally considered safe during pregnancy as they only work on the skin surface. However, the product does contain a trace amount of Bergamot Fruit Oil, which is a photosensitizer. While the concentration is very low (last in the INCI list), it is best to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before incorporating it into your pregnancy skincare routine.

No, this product is not fungal acne safe. The formula contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast: Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate (fatty acid esters), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (medium-chain triglyceride), and Octyldodecanol (fatty alcohol). If you are prone to fungal acne, look for alternatives that have been specifically formulated to avoid these triggers, such as products checked through folliculitis-safe ingredient databases.

PHAs are the gentlest class of chemical exfoliants, so they layer more safely with other actives than AHAs or BHAs. With retinol, it is best to use the Cica Pad and retinol on alternating nights to avoid over-exfoliation. With Vitamin C, you can use Vitamin C in the morning and the Cica Pad at night. Avoid layering this product with strong AHA or BHA treatments in the same routine — this can lead to over-exfoliation and compromise the skin barrier. If you must combine, space them out and monitor your skin's response.

This pad is best suited for sensitive, dry, dehydrated, and redness-prone skin types. It excels at calming irritated skin while providing gentle surface exfoliation. It also works well for beginners new to chemical exfoliation and those with rosacea. Oily skin types or those with stubborn blackheads may find the PHA exfoliation too mild and may prefer BHA-based pads like the COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad instead.

You should notice softer, smoother skin immediately after first use thanks to the rich cica essence. Visible improvements in skin texture and reduced flakiness typically appear within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Redness reduction and barrier strengthening become more noticeable around weeks 3–4. For full barrier repair and long-term calming benefits, allow at least 2 months of regular use (2–3 times per week).

Use the Cica Pad immediately after cleansing, as your second step. It functions as both an exfoliator and toner in one, so it can replace your regular toner on the days you use it. After the pad, continue with your serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Best used in the evening routine. Do not rinse off after application — let the essence absorb fully into the skin.

This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The formula is essence-based and lightweight, with no heavy oils or waxes known to clog pores. The PHA exfoliation actually helps keep pores clear by removing dead skin cells from the surface. However, every skin is different — if you are highly acne-prone, patch test on a small area first and observe for a few days before full-face application.

The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Each jar contains 90 pads, which lasts approximately 3 months if used daily, or 6–8 months if used 2–3 times per week. Always close the lid tightly after each use to prevent the pads from drying out. Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Neogen Dermalogy Real Cica Pad is an outstanding choice for anyone with sensitive, dry, or redness-prone skin who wants to incorporate gentle chemical exfoliation into their routine without the sting and irritation of traditional AHAs and BHAs. The combination of Centella Asiatica (with all four centellosides), PHA exfoliants, triple Hyaluronic Acid, and Ceramide NP delivers a well-rounded formula that soothes, exfoliates, and hydrates in a single convenient pad. At 90 pads for $20, the value is excellent. The main limitations are its unsuitability for fungal acne-prone skin, the trace bergamot oil, and the fact that oily skin types may find the exfoliation too mild for deep pore concerns. Overall, it is one of the best K-beauty cica pads on the market for sensitive skin maintenance.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

Awesome, I Understand!

Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

Awesome, I Understand!

Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 8 ingredient(s):
Centella Asiatica Extract Madecassic Acid Madecassoside Lactobionic Acid Gluconolactone Hyaluronic Acid Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Ceramide NP
brightening Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Lactobionic Acid Hyaluronic Acid Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 9 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Centella Asiatica Extract Asiaticoside Madecassoside Hyaluronic Acid Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Sodium Hyaluronate Allantoin Panthenol
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
81% 18%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 33 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
1 B
Centella Asiatica Extract
Cleansing, Skin Conditioning, Smoothing, Soothing, Tonic
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
1 A
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS